THE parents of a 12-year-old Michael Raven who hanged himself have described their son as the ‘light of their lives.’

In a joint statement, his parents Susan and Graham paid tribute to Blackburn schoolboy Michael, who was found hanging in his bedroom at his home on Monday.

Michael, of Longworth Avenue, Brunshaw, Burnley, was discovered after 5.20pm on Monday.

The St Wilfrid’s CofE Academy pupil was taken to Royal Blackburn Hospital where he was pronounced dead.

His parents have said their son brought ‘so much joy and happiness to the lives of all who were fortunate to know him’.

They also thanked everyone for their messages of support.

Susan and Graham said: “Michael was the light of our lives.

"He brought so much joy and happiness to the lives of all who were fortunate to know him.

“We wanted him for life. God gave us twelve wonderful years with him then, for reasons known only to God, took him home to heaven.

“We all love him so very much and can’t see how life will carry on without him, but it will with the Grace of God.

“We all miss him so much. We would like to thank everyone for the lovely messages of support, love and prayers. Please continue to pray for us and Michael.”

A post mortem examination has been carried out and it revealed Michael died as a result of hanging.

Initial police investigations show that the youngster has not been a victim of bullying.

Police are still unclear why Michael hanged himself but the school said it had ‘not been made aware’ of any bullying concerns despite rumours circulating on social-networking sites.

A case file is being compiled for the coroner.